<p>I am really interested in applying to BA/MD type programs. I have a pretty good academic record so far (3.96 GPA, 2300 SAT, 2210 Combined SAT II which i will improve some more, and some more artsy EC stuff (ie band 8 years, theater 3 years)).
But what i seem to be lacking is more science/medical volunteering/job shadows etc. I am going into my senior year of high school so I dont have all that much time. What should I try to focus on to get in before sending in applications?
Also, where do I start looking for these job shadows and volunteer opportunities? I dont even know where to start. local hospital?</p>
<p>Thanks,
Ghost117</p>
<p>Forget the shadowing. Look for volunteer opportunities where you might have something to offer, e.g., nursing homes, adult day care centers, free clinics.</p>
<p>If you have a volunteer ambulance in your area that’s another place you help. Volunteer to work on the ambulance.</p>
<p>so you guys are saying to not just volunteer at a local hospital and job shadow? Because i was just reading another post where someone was recommending that a person get some job shadowing in before they apply. And if you are saying free clinics, how is that different from say a hospital emergency room?</p>
<p>Thanks by the way,
Ghost117</p>
<p>Edit: Also, where do I look to volunteer for an ambulance? Hospital? fire dept?</p>
<p>Call a hospital and ask them if you can volunteer. They can always use more volunteers. Don’t do busy work if you can help it; try and contribute something.</p>
<p>Job Shadowing is good, but it’s the quality/diversity of it, rather than the amount of time. Shadow different specialties of doctors if you can, instead of spending 40-50 hours on one doctor.</p>
<p>Also, hurry up and get all this done. Spend the rest of your summer contacting people, and be willing to go through the year with this; If you write in your essays that you started volunteering and will continue even after you finish applying, it may make them like you more as a candidate who is willing to go the extra mile to help people.</p>